Education - May 2024

May Special Section

2 | May 2024 | AppenMedia.com

EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

Great minds think differently Brought to you by - The Cottage School Since 1985, The Cottage School (TCS) has provided a comprehensive program for students with learning differences grades 3-12. TCS offers a business-based model that promotes self-advocacy and fosters self-confidence, preparing them for life after graduation to pursue post-secondary educational paths or vocational opportunities.

Our accredited college preparatory curriculum meets all Georgia standards and HOPE scholarship requirements to take students to graduation and beyond.

Our students, in all grades, enjoy unique experiential learning with electives based on their interests and clubs including archery, drama, forensics, robotics, horticulture and amazing off-campus experiences throughout the year.

The school’s beautiful 23-acre Roswell campus is a hidden gem in North Fulton, with small class sizes our students develop meaningful connections to our teaching staff.

Our cottages are unique and warm learning environments that include computer and science labs, art studios, a multi-purpose athletic and performing arts facility, indoor and outdoor classrooms, comprehensive music program and trails for mountain biking and cross-country. TCS encourages students of all abilities to participate in athletics by offering sports such as soccer, basketball, baseball, cross-country, tennis, and golf.

The Cottage School has built a oneof-a-kind learning environment perfect for students who learn differently. TCS offers 12-month rolling admissions for all grade levels. Visit our website or call for a campus tour today.

PROVIDED

NOW ENROLLING GRADES 3 - 12

Established in 1985 at the highest point in the city of Roswell, GA, The Cottage School equips students with learning differences to face the challenges of a changing world by meeting the students where they are today.

Students learn differently.

We teach differently.

Our unique experiential programming and business-based model sets us apart from all the rest.

Schedule your family’s tour today! cottageschool.org 770-641-8688

EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

AppenMedia.com | May 2024 | 3

EDUCATION NEWS

North Springs High prepares for construction on new school

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — With the April 26 approval of a $14.1 million contract for site work at North Springs High School, dirt at 7447 Roswell Road will be moving soon.

The Fulton County School Board of Education approved the contract with Cumming-based Vertical Earth, with an additional $1.4 million contingency, for phase one site work at the new school.

North Springs is a Fulton County public high school in the heart of Sandy Springs.

It is the state's only dual magnet school, allowing students to participate in the Visual & Arts magnet, Mathematics & Science magnet, or both, depending on their qualifications and abilities. Built in 1963, the school is one of the oldest in the Fulton County system.

Fulton County Schools’ “Bricks and Clicks” 2027 Capital Plan, funded through the education special purpose local option sales tax, calls for replacing North Springs High.

Since Fulton County voters first approved ESPLOST in 1997, it has become

FULTON COUNTY SCHOOLS/PROVIDED

A rendering shows the campus layout of the new North Springs High School, anticipated to open in August 2027.

the primary funding source for capital improvements, with $3.2 billion generated to date.

The replacement of the school and construction of a new campus will cost around $108 million, according to a February estimate from Noel Maloof, chief operations officer for the district.

Replacing the school requires significant coordination. Construction will take place on-campus while school is in session.

The $15.6 site work project calls for the demolition of the softball field, compe-

tition field, stadium, practice field, tennis courts and surrounding parking lots, driveways and hardscape.

Site work also includes installing a new curb cut at Trowbridge Road and new access driveways as a part of the new layout of the school’s replacement.

Other phase one tasks include construction of new soil-nail and concrete retaining walls, relocation of existing utilities and installation of new utilities, storm drainage pipe systems and three detention ponds.

Anne Boatwright, media relations manager at Fulton County Schools, said all other site work and building construction will happen in a later phase.

She also said the estimated time for completion of the first phase is this December. Because of potential dangers, Boatwright said the campus will be subdivided to keep all construction activities separate from school activities.

“There will be safety fencing and other controls in place to make this possible to manage,” she said. “Safety is always the priority when a contractor is working on the campus while school is in session.”

Boatwright also said the school district coordinates on a regular basis with Princi-

pal Sott Hanson and his staff.

Because phase one involves the demolition of athletic facilities, high school sports will move to other schools, including Sandy Springs Middle.

Appen Media also asked Fulton County Schools representatives about the potential for noise disruptions during the 2024-25 school year and beyond.

Because site work is anticipated to conclude at the end of the year, construction of additional phases is expected to continue until the new school’s projected opening date in August 2027.

“Due to the location of the construction, being elevated and on the back side of the building that faces the gymnasium and other large activity spaces, the noise factor is expected to be minimal,” Boatwright said.

She listed student safety and preserving a disruption-free learning environment as the top priorities of Fulton County Schools.

“Communication has already begun about some adjustments and more will be conducted in the fall to ensure all students and teachers understand the safety and access parameters while the project is ongoing," she said.

Discover the McGinnis Woods Difference!

• Private non-parochial education for infants through 8th grade.

• Nurturing environment featuring 1 to 1 iPads, outstanding teachers, small class sizes with assistants, hands-on academics, STEM, Discovery Clubs, frequent field trips, and leadership opportunities.

Schedule a Tour Today!

• After School, Sports, Science Olympiad,

Robotics and Drama available.

A quarter century of inspiring students with the passion to excel

5380 Faircroft Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005 • www.McGinnisWoods.org • 770-664-7764 Cognia, GAC and NAEYC accredited

4 | May 2024 | AppenMedia.com

EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

The Magic of Middle School Brought to you by - High Meadows With one foot rooted in childhood and the other stepping eagerly into adolescence, middle schoolers can pose a perplexing combination of needs and contradictions. High Meadows Middle Years teachers would tell you, however, that this distinct age and stage is also marked by heightened information processing abilities that allow students to delve more meaningfully into complex thinking, problem solving, self-reflection and growth.

What do middle schoolers need to grow

and thrive?

Collaborative Learning: One key element of adolescence is a strong social drive. Instead of trying to control and minimize socialization in the classroom, High Meadows teachers utilize this social motivation through collaborative work, dialogue-driven lessons, and exploring different perspectives and lenses on topics.

Exploration and Self-Expression: High Meadows robust mini-course offerings provide Middle Years students the opportunity to choose from and try many different specialized courses including Animal Care, Yoga, Band,

Debate, a variety of Fine Arts courses, Theatre, World Peace Games, Culinary Arts and more.

Fostering Independence & SelfConfidence: High Meadows middle years program empowers students to grow in independence, study and research skills, time management, and accountability. Students reflect regularly on their own growth and set goals for themselves.

Mentorship & Leadership: HMS Middle Years students enjoy the role of being campus-wide mentors, and leaders who serve as role models to the younger students in the community. Sixth

through Eighth grade students serve as “buddies” to even our youngest Pre-K students on campus.

Intellectual and Academic Challenge: High Meadows graduates enter their high school years with a strong academic foundation, a passion for learning, and a keen understanding of what they need to be successful.

The majority of HMS alum start their high school careers in AP and Honors courses.

To learn more about High Meadows’ Middle Years program, visit highmeadows.org.

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Beyond high school readiness, our rich and rigorous program inspires students to be positive change makers and lifelong learners.

Since 1973, the school has inspired children to think critically, learn creatively, act globally, and live compassionately.

Group tours offered weekly. Visit our website to register.

Age 3 through Eighth Grade | Roswell, GA 770.993.2940 | www.highmeadows.org An International Baccalaureate® School

&

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EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

EDUCATION NEWS

School social worker connects students to resources Forsyth County Schools posts fewer specialists than in neighboring DeKalb, Fulton counties

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Amy Gamez, one of 14 school social workers in the Forsyth County School District, plants her feet on the ground throughout a scheduled day of meetings, ready to be on the move.

Her role is holistic, communitybased and requires the skill of anticipating needs as well as adapting to change, pivoting when a school calls her in the middle of the workday requiring that she be present for additional student support.

“That’s what I love about my job — I like to kind of be here and there and everywhere,” Gamez said.

Gamez handled 400 to 500 of the 5,100 student cases in Forsyth County public schools this year, though some of those were quick one-anddones versus students who required continuous oversight. Last year, she said, social workers conducted a total of 800 home visits.

Over the course of her 18-year career with Forsyth County Schools, Gamez said the needs have increased, serving more families in a district that has seen nearly 13,000 more students enroll in the last decade. But, she said community resources have grown to meet those needs.

Around a decade ago, Gamez began organizing what is now Family Promise of Forsyth County — a nonprofit that serves families experiencing homelessness. At the time, she knew of five families living out of a hotel, and she began reaching out to churches to schedule a planning meeting.

“I was really frustrated because I saw that they were paying at the time [what] was probably $1,000 a month, which is nothing now, you know, and they were just in a hole,” Gamez said.

“Most of these families were in the hotel for six months to a year, and I was very frustrated that they were just stuck in this cycle.”

Gamez is continuing to meet basic needs for students and their families, sometimes doing it through a phone app called Purposity which allows her to request items that individuals around Forsyth County can donate.

AMY GAMEZ/PROVIDED

Amy Gamez, one of 14 Forsyth County Schools social workers, stands by a food donation provided by a local community partner. Gamez serves New Hope Elementary School, Otwell Middle School and Academies of Creative Education, which includes Forsyth Academy, Gateway Academy and Forsyth Virtual Academy.

She said Forsyth County was one of the pilot counties for Purposity, Gamez becoming one of the first slate of school social workers to use the tool.

She said there has also been a shift in focus over the years, from meeting basic needs to mental health challenges. Nowadays, mental health is a large component to her job, though social workers and counselors function differently.

“We really are a connector to families to get them plugged into the resources in our community,” said Gomez, who works with a number of nonprofits and organizations like the Division of Family and Children Services. The week before, she met with representatives of the Boys and Girls Club on how to connect students to its services.

The ratio of students per school social worker in the Forsyth County School District was more than double than in DeKalb and Fulton counties last year. But, the ratio of students per school counselor across all grade levels was mid-range.

There were 378 students per counselor across Forsyth County elementary, middle and high schools, whereas there were 478 students per

JACOB TOMBERLIN/PROVIDED

A comparison of the number of students per school social worker across Dekalb, Forsyth and Fulton county school districts shows that the ratio in the Forsyth County School District is more than double its neighbors in fiscal year 2023. There were 14 school social workers that served nearly 54,500 students in Forsyth County. counselor in Fulton County and 283 in DeKalb County.

In addition to its team of counselors, Forsyth County Schools has a mental health facilitator, nine student advocacy specialists, eight support staff for behavior support – each with different roles, and 17 emotional behavioral intervention classes.

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners in March formed a mental health advisory committee, set to have two school board members.

But, Forsyth County Schools opted out.

Jennifer Caracciolo, chief communications officer for Forsyth County, told Appen Media that Forsyth County Schools is “assessing the effectiveness” of its system efforts with regard to its strategic plan.

“It’s not that we don’t want to partner,” Caracciolo said. “We obviously have made a significant investment in mental health, not only for that of our students, but our staff

as well. And, we have a district plan, and we have employed a number of experts in various fields, and so we’re working on that plan.”

She also said the district is trying to focus on getting students graduated.

While investments have been made toward mental health resources, investments in school social workers are lacking. Caracciolo argued that this is because the district plans according to the needs of its specific student population, opting for other methods.

Caracciolo highlighted the school district’s local investment dollars, spending more than $11 million on school counselors than what is received from the state. She also said neighboring school districts receive significantly more federal funding, in part because of their free/reduced lunch numbers.

The Forsyth County School

See RESOURCES, Page 9

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Valor Christian Academy celebrates the successes of its seniors through Life Prep | College Ready Model Brought to you by - Valor Christian Academy Valor Christian Academy, founded in August 2020, grew out of the desire to educate, strengthen and equip the whole child in a unique environment where learning fits the way God designed each child. At Valor, we’ve reimagined educational offerings, and

parents may choose from a variety of educational modes, from virtual, hybrid, full-time, or homeschool, we seek to meet the education needs of every child and family. Our high school model, is one that prepares students to be Life-Prep | College Ready, which includes four days of on campus learning and one day of at home independent study. We

are proud to announce that several students in the Class of 2024 will graduate with a diploma of distinction, which serves as an opportunity for students to receive credit for further study, research, and experience in Fine Arts, Communications, or STEM. No matter what mode fits an individual child, we aim to launch each student as a servant leader who

knows how to shape culture through a biblical world-view. Our team looks forward to prayerfully walking you through the admissions experience where your family can be a part of Education Reimagined.

Contact Valor Christian Academy at 770-751-1972 or visit us at www. valorlions.org.

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AppenMedia.com | May 2024 | 9

Does my child have a learning disability?

Brought to you by - Rebecca L. Marshall, Ph.D., Summit Counseling Center

JACOB TOMBERLIN/PROVIDED

A comparison of the number of students per school counselor across Dekalb, Forsyth and Fulton county school districts shows that Forsyth County Schools is mid-range with 378 students per counselor across its elementary, middle and high schools.

Resources: Continued from Page 6 District has about half the student population than Fulton and DeKalb counties, and it also works with a much smaller budget. Yet, Forsyth County Schools collects 80 percent of what its neighbors collect in terms of total revenue per student and has 25 percent of the school social worker staffing.

Despite Forsyth County being the richest county in Georgia by per capita income, and its school district maintaining high academic rankings across the state overall, lack of adequate housing for students is growing.

McKinney Vento, a federal, state

and local program created during the Reagan administration to address attendance issues related to homelessness, identifies homelessness as the lack of fixed, adequate or regular nighttime housing.

In March, Appen Media reported there were 1,044 students in the district’s McKinney Vento program, up from the 1,020 students recorded at the end of the 2022-23 school year. There were 610 students in the program in 2019-20.

“Fulton or DeKalb may have a larger number of students that are facing homelessness, and also facing social and economic challenges,” said Caracciolo, who confirmed the district is adding another school social worker next year to serve a growing student population of currently more than 55,300 students.

If your child is struggling in school despite receiving extra help, you may be wondering if your child has a learning disability. Figuring out whether your child has a learning disability, and what to do about it, can become clear with formal testing by a professional with expertise in the field. Evaluation of suspected learning disabilities is essential to finding appropriate interventions so that children do not fall behind in school.

A learning disability (LD) is defined by poor achievement in particular academic areas compared to a child’s potential, which is based on the child’s general intellectual ability. Poor performance in school is itself not necessarily an indicator of a learning disability (LD); rather, poor performance in the context of appropriate effort, attention, and additional help may be indicative of a specific learning disorder. Learning disabilities may affect particular academic skills, such as reading or math, but often affect a variety of subject areas. Learning disabilities can also be exacerbated or compounded by attention problems. While prevalence estimates vary, a significant percentage of children with learning disabilities also have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

There are several benefits of a comprehensive evaluation for learning disabilities, also called a psychoeducational evaluation. First, the diagnosis of an LD can establish a child’s eligibility for educational services in schools. Second, the reasons underlying poor academic performance in a specific subject area can be determined; and, finally and most importantly, specific learning problems can be subsequently targeted for intervention or remediation.

Sometimes poor performance in school is a result of social or emotional factors that are not associated with a learning disability. It is important to identify and address, for example, whether a child is struggling with anxiety or depression that may be affecting his or her school performance. Comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations help parents and teachers to determine whether social and emotional problems may be interfering with the learning process.

Early identification of learning disabilities leads to targeted interventions that can help children progress in school. Early intervention is best, so it is critical to have your child tested as soon as a learning disability is suspected. Regardless of the reasons behind poor school performance, assessment is the first step in getting your child back on track to academic success.

Rebecca L. Marshall, Ph.D. (rmarshall@summitcounseling.org) is a Licensed Psychologist and Staff Therapist at the Summit Counseling Center in Johns Creek, Georgia.

Live Your Best Life Healthy Relationships Positive Coping Skills Balanced Emotions We can help!

www.SummitCounseling.org (678) 893-5300

10 | May 2024 | AppenMedia.com

EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

Woodward Academy launches new Maymester Program Brought to you by - Woodward Academy Woodward Academy is launching a Maymester program in May 2024 for Middle and Upper School students. This program is an integral goal of Woodward’s 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, an Unparalleled Student Experience, which highlights the need to increase real-world application offerings in the curriculum to better prepare students for the future.

The Maymester program will take place during the last two weeks of May, after the conclusion of the spring semester, and will provide students exposure to ideas, cultures, community, and relationships through experiential learning and real-world applications. Maymester students will partake in a concrete, hands-on learning experience followed by focused and intentional reflection. Maymester will offer multiple settings in which students can participate and learn on campus, in the community, or via a domestic or international travel experience.

Our Maymester courses will be anchored to Woodward’s mission statement of creating a richer learner community and exceptional academic opportunities for our students in order to nurture lifelong learners. The faculty have designed intriguing cross-disciplinary courses born from their own passions.

Course proposals include Zoology, Game Design, Sports Marketing, Public Speaking, The Civil Rights Movement in Georgia, Business in a Box, Writing a Novel, The Chemistry of Food, Ancient Civilizations and Cultures, Auto Maintenance, and more.

Assessment will be based on a deliverable that students create at the end of the course in the context of their learning. These deliverables could be presentations, journals, audio/video logs, peer reviewed feedback, or another method designed and approved by the teacher. With the exception of Class of 2024 seniors, all Woodward Middle and Upper School students are required to participate and will receive course credit for the Maymester program.

Woodward Appoints Academy Psychologist Ms. Daena Shearer was selected to serve as Woodward’s newly appointed Academy Psychologist.

This position was created in response to the Academy’s 20222025 Strategic Plan goal to proactively foster, develop, and support the social and emotional well-being of each member of the Woodward Academy community.

Ms. Shearer has spent the last nine years working as a school psychologist in public and private school systems in New York and Georgia, most recently at the Lovett School. She has extensive experience working with pre-K through 12th grade students experiencing socialemotional, behavioral, and learning challenges. Additionally, Ms. Shearer has provided in-home therapy for students with developmental delays, autism, and other genetic disorders, and has a wealth of experience conducting individual and group setting counseling.

Ms. Shearer is an expert in conducting psycho-educational evaluations and is proficient in using those assessments to tailor academic and behavioral interventions in both school and home settings.

Her therapeutic techniques include play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, group therapy, and applied behavioral analysis. Ms. Shearer is excited for the opportunity to join a community that deeply values mental health, and to use her therapeutic background to further advance the Academy’s mental health and wellness initiative. She shares, “I admire Woodward’s emphasis on meeting each student where they are, and equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and tools necessary to achieve success, no matter their learning differences.”

Ms. Shearer holds a B.A. in Psychology from The City College of New York, as well as an Advanced Professional Diploma in School Psychology and a M.S. in Education, specializing in Therapeutic Interventions, from Fordham University Graduate School of Education in New York.

PROVIDED

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EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

We teach children to thrive Brought to you by – Endeavor Montessori, Dunwoody A child’s first years of education tremendously impact their future.

That’s why we help children build a foundation of knowledge and skills that will empower them to succeed academically, socially, and personally.

With a strong foundation, your child can reach new heights.

Endeavor Montessori is now enrolling children ages six weeks to 12 years for 2024 - 2025. Our curriculum implements a modernized Montessori approach that cultivates the whole child intellectually, emotionally, and socially. In addition, our rigorous yet celebratory approach inspires critical thinking, cultural awareness, and entrepreneurship.

With our holistic approach, children develop in all areas. From building critical thinking and creative problemsolving skills to forming meaningful connections, our students enjoy an educational experience that prepares them to succeed in various ways.

To make this high level of education possible, At Endeavor Montessori, our

staff includes professionally-trained Montessori educators who understand the importance of accommodating each student’s needs and learning style.

We take this approach to ensure every student succeeds and realizes their educational goals while being part of a close-knit school community.

Endeavor Montessori offers a learning environment where children experience appropriate levels of technology that are integrated seamlessly into an enhanced Montessori curriculum. This approach, along with a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) program, addresses the demands placed by modern education while also strengthening children’s innate desire to seek knowledge and find the answers.

Let your child thrive with Endeavor Montessori.

To learn more about our curriculum and for enrollment for children ages six weeks to 12 years, call (770)637-1242 or visit our website at endeavormontessori.com

PROVIDED

Endeavor Montessori offers a modernized and holistic educational approach designed for infants through elementary school. Our students benefit from: • A proven Montessori curriculum developed by top education experts • Age-appropriate activities to develop leadership and problem-solving skills • STEAM topics and global languages integrated into a balanced curriculum • A community-based approach that drives strong bonds between staff and families • Montessori-certified teachers who are passionate about the growth of each child • Beautiful outdoor learning spaces and purposeful play areas

Schedule Your Tour Today!

Now Enrolling Children Ages 6 Weeks - 12 Years.

770-637-1242

endeavormontessori.com

48 Perimeter Center East, Atlanta, GA 30346

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Holy Spirit Preparatory School Helping Students Grow in Virtue Brought to you by - Holy Spirit Preparatory School Holy Spirit Preparatory School is an independent, Catholic college preparatory school serving Preschool-12th grade students with a profound educational vision. Our curriculum combines the best of classical pedagogical traditions in a joyful, engaging, and thoroughly Catholic environment.

This curriculum includes STEMbased coursework, fine and performing arts, and a very active athletic program.

Through these means, we seek to enkindle in students the desire to pursue excellence in every endeavor they undertake and provide them with all the tools necessary to lead successful, rewarding lives in a manner consistent with the sublime end for which they have

been created: eternal life with God. This vision deeply informs our curriculum and animates our efforts to help students grow in virtue and to know and love truth, goodness, and beauty, the three divine attributes upon which all authentically classical, Catholic education is grounded. “A saint,” our beloved late Pope Benedict XVI observed, “is one who is so captivated

by God’s perfect truth and beauty as to be progressively transformed by it.” We strive to provide a learning environment that advances this noble aspiration, so our students are fully prepared to go into the world firm in faith, joyful in hope, and active in charity. https://holyspiritprep.org/ admissions@holyspiritprep.org 678.761.7992

EDUCATION NEWS

Tuition. fees to increase at Georgia’s public universities starting fall 2024

By ROSS WILLIAMS Georgia Recorder ATLANTA — A degree from a Georgia public college or university will soon cost a little more under a plan approved by the Board of Regents April 16.

The regents voted to approve a plan that increases tuition by 2.5% for most instate students. Out-of-staters will pay 5% more, and the plan also creates a new rate for students from other countries, set at 2% higher than out-of-state students.

Chancellor Sonny Perdue praised the regents for keeping tuition flat at all institutions except Middle Georgia College for six of the last eight years but said colleges and universities must deal with higher prices for most of their expenses.

“Anybody that goes to the grocery store and the gas pump or eats out, guess what’s happened? Everybody’s paying more and the inflation has taken over on our campuses as well, from salaries to food costs to virtually everything else. It’s just like our whole economy, just because you’re university doesn’t make you immune to economic trends of inflation, and that’s what’s happened.”

The increase means an in-state University of Georgia student taking more than six credit hours will see their tuition rise from $4,895 to $5,017 per semester, while an out-of-state student will need to fork over $15,136, up from $14,415. The

newly-created out-of-country category of students will pay $15,424 for a semester at UGA. The new rates are set to be effective for the fall 2024 semester. A full list of tuition rates for each institution is available on the University System of Georgia’s website.

Students who take classes online will also pay more – eTuition rates are set to increase by 2.5% for most courses, and the regents approved new fees for fully online students. Web-based learners will soon pay a fee equaling their institution’s technology fee plus half of the institution’s mandatory fees.

The university system’s Chief Fiscal Officer Tracey Cook said the number of students taking classes fully online increased 91% between 2019 and 2022, and most of those students did not have to pay their institution’s mandatory fees.

“Less students paying these fees translates into less revenues to cover expenses, and these declining revenues are occurring while institutions are experiencing increasing costs,” she said. “Some of those costs include, again, increased wages, competition, rising food costs, fixed and escalating debt payments on our public/private venture projects.”

This story comes to Appen Media through a reporting partnership with Georgia Recorder, a nonprofit newsroom that covers statewide issues.

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EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

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Change lives, change the world Brought to you by - Wesleyan School Wesleyan School believes faith and intellect are great partners with each other. At Wesleyan, it’s not a matter of choosing faith or intellect, but rather using both to create the best possible education for your child.

Our leadership and faculty work to provide students with an atmosphere that is challenging, reinforces the value of hard work, and emphasizes character and integrity above accomplishment. Wesleyan prepares students for each stage of life and provides them with the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them. Wesleyan’s school motto is JOY-Jesus, Others, Yourself, and every aspect of school life is oriented to reinforce this philosophy of putting Jesus first and others ahead of ourselves.

A college preparatory environment,

students have access to a wide range of academic opportunities along with athletics, arts, service and other extracurricular activities. Wesleyan’s 85-acre campus provides state-ofthe-art academic facilities along with on-campus practice space for athletics and arts.

Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, Wesleyan enrolled 1,206 students in grades K-12 for the 2023-2024 school year. Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area. Supervised care before school is included in the cost of tuition and after care is available (K-8) until 6 p.m. at an affordable rate.

Wesleyan School 5405 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-448-7640 https://www.wesleyanschool.org/

PROVIDED

Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive

LEARN MORE

E X P L O R E W E S L E YA N AT W W W. W E S L E YA N S C H O O L . O R G / A D M I S S I O N S

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EDUCATION NEWS

Congratulations North Springs Spartans Class of 2024!

Local high school seniors provide advice to students FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Continuing the tradition of recognizing departing students, Fulton County Schools has released the first six videos for its “Senior Spotlight: Class of 2024.”

Fulton County Schools profiles 19 outstanding seniors — one from each high school — who embody the spirit of the class of 2024.

Each week in May, the school district will release additional profiles.

The group of seniors include high academic achievers, all-star athletes and award-winners, students with unusual or unique stories to share, and those who have beaten the odds to graduate.

The class of 2024 began their high school journey at the height of COVID-19 lockdowns, but persevered.

Leila Alvarez, a senior at Alpharetta High School, said getting involved in everything she could was her solution to such an enormous challenge.

When she is not at soccer practice or studying for International Baccalaureate classes, Alvarez serves as the student body vice president and participates in other school activities.

In her role as president of the Unified Raiders, Alvarez builds bonds between different students at the school.

Leila calls her work with the Unified Raiders her proudest accomplishment. She said she finds purpose, “knowing that I’m giving back to a community that feels really isolated.”

Her advice to students entering high school is to get involved with clubs and activities at school.

Next year, Alvarez will attend Williams College in Massachusetts.

When Lucy Sillitto, a Centennial High School senior, is faced with challenges, she turns them into opportunities with others.

Social studies teacher Cameron Yarbrough said Sillitto embodies what it means to be a Centennial Knight.

“She’s strong in the classroom, she cares for others and wants to see them succeed and is just really an all-round stellar student,” Yarbrough said.

Sillitto founded a local chapter of the national mental health organization, Active Minds. The work

of the 50-member club was featured on 11Alive News during Suicide Prevention Week.

After graduation Sillitto plans to attend Georgia Tech and major in neuroscience.

She said she chose the major because of her love for science and push to de-stigmatize mental health.

Sillitto advises incoming high school students to “find a balance in your life and find something that you can use as your outlet.”

Laylah Frazier, a senior at North Springs High School, said her mom helped her balance volleyball, cheerleading and Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps.

North Springs High School Principal Scott Hanson said Frazier’s involvement makes her stand out.

“She is involved in school, she's a multi-sport athlete, and she's somebody that is in the JROTC leadership program,” Hanson said.

“She just makes her mark all over the place.”

After graduation she plans to attend college and is considering a career in aviation or aeronautics with a double major in public relations.

Frazier advises incoming high school students to “make friends, talk to people, talk to your teachers and talk to your administrators.

If you are a familiar face around school, so many doors open for you.”

Christian Jimenez, senior valedictorian at Roswell High School, said his mother is one of his biggest inspirations for running and as a person.

Jimenez, a member of the cross country team, placed second in the Boys 6A 5,000-meter run this year.

Honors and AP Chemistry teacher Christi Chilton said Jimenez is an intellectual star.

“He is constantly asking thoughtprovoking questions to deepen his understanding,” she said. “He is truly invested in the success and emotional well-being of his peers and celebrates everyone’s achievements.”

Jimenez is headed to the University of California, San Diego in the fall.

Haja Kabba from Banneker High School near College Park and Lauren Jones from Creekside High School in Fairburn also received senior spotlights in the first week of May.

AppenMedia.com | May 2024 | 15

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EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

16 | May 2024 | AppenMedia.com

Sowing the seeds of organic learning Brought to you by – Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia Maria Montessori, Italy’s first woman doctor, invented a system of early childhood education based on her scientific observations of how the child constructs himself through interaction with his environment.

Her emphasis on the importance of the “prepared” environment created by the teacher offers the child the freedom to choose his work. This freedom - which is given when the child demonstrates the responsibility to use it wisely - allows him to remain with an activity until its purpose is accomplished. Working without artificial timelines allows him to engage in the spontaneous repetition of a skill so that it is refined; this freedom also creates in him the ability to concentrate for long periods of time and to feel the satisfaction of mastery.

In a Montessori environment, the teacher serves as a guide rather than as a traditional instructor. She continually observes the child, using these observations to give the next lesson so that he steadily progresses.

The multi-aged classroom gives every child regular opportunities to be the learner as well as the leader in the security

of a home-like environment which is cared for by everyone in it, teacher and student alike. The Montessori classroom is ordered and beautiful, filled with materials that are aesthetically pleasing, materials which capture the imagination and assist in physical, academic and social development.

Montessori develops children who are responsible, creative, innovative, respectful and kind. Montessori children are truly the citizens of the future, equipped to face challenges with confidence and competence.

Located near the intersection of 141 and McGinnis Ferry Road in Johns Creek, Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia provides excellence in Montessori education for infants, toddlers and children to six years old. JCMSOG provides an authentic Montessori environment, where each individual’s needs are respected, and everyone works together for the good of the community.

The focus is always on helping the children to develop themselves in a caring, peaceful environment. By helping children to develop independence, we assist them in their physical and emotional development.

As their sense of security in their ability to care for themselves and their environment grows, their brains have more energy

PROVIDED

or “bandwidth” for increased academic learning. Additionally, this focus on the development of muscular control is a first step in developing self-discipline. The

JCMSOG Difference is best experienced in person. Please schedule a visit with your child to observe our “Montessori Magic” www.JCMSOG.org 770-814-8001

2022

Sowing the Seeds of Organic Learning We follow all CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations.

• All Day, year-round, authentic Montessori Program with rolling admissions • School Administration Team with Advanced Academic Degrees • Montessori Trained Lead Teachers in every classroom providing individual customized lessons • Scientifically designed, hands on, multisensory learning Currently materials in all our beautifully organized classrooms Accepting Applications For 2024 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia

6450 East Johns Crossing • Johns Creek, GA 30097

www.JCMSOG.org • 770-814-8001

• Designated School Personnel only allowed in the school building • Thorough handwashing/hygiene practices consistently taught and enforced • Healthy, nutritious lunch and snacks provided daily and included in tuition fees Limited Openings Available – The JCMSOG difference is best experienced in person, schedule a tour or visit with your child and observe our “Montessori Magic.”

American Montessori Society The Pan American Montessori Society The Georgia Accrediting Commission, Inc

EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

AppenMedia.com | May 2024 | 17

18 MONTHS – 8TH GRADE

PROVIDED

Springmont…Atlanta’s first Montessori school Springmont, the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, offers students 18 months through middle school an authentic, Montessori experience that is extraordinary by design. Individualized learning inspires our diverse population of students to become creative, independent and globally minded. Classrooms are large, light-filled and thoughtfully prepared, while the campus’ many natural areas, class gardens and farm animals afford rich outdoor life science lessons.

Specially designed Montessori materials support children’s developmental needs and offer students a wide variety of hands-on activities that concretely reinforce skills, lessons and concepts.

Highly-experienced and caring teachers guide students through an individualized curriculum that develops the whole child—socially, emotionally and academically. Multi-aged classes allow younger children to learn from older ones and older students to mentor younger classmates.

Art, Music, Physical Education, Outdoor Science Education and Span-

ish are essential parts of the student experience. At Springmont, students are challenged to reach their fullest potential and empowered to help steer their own educations. Children’s innate curiosity grows into a lifelong love of learning and a quest for meaningful discoveries and deeper knowledge.

Middle School students run microeconomies and compete in regional academic competitions. Opportunities to hone time-management skills, experience active leadership roles, ar ticulate complex ideas and work both independently and in diverse groups make our Middle School Program a true capstone experience.

Springmont graduates are confident, collaborative, engaged learners, prepared for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools as well as life beyond academics. Springmont School—Extraordinary by Design.

Limited seats remain for the 2024-25 school year! For more information or to schedule a personal tour, call 404-252-3910 or visit springmont.com

Springmont’s authentic Montessori experience balances academic learning with social/emotional well-being.

Highly experienced and caring teachers guide individualized learning that inspires students to become creative, independent and globally-minded.

Limited seats available for 2024-25.

404.252.3910 • www.springmont.com

EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION

18 | May 2024 | AppenMedia.com

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